Lemon Curd Tarts

I have been itching to make lemon curd for some time now and here is why: first, Meyer lemons are still in season (I have already shared my love for them here) and second, this pudding-like filling is just so pretty and versatile.  It can be layered over a stack of pancakes, drizzled atop a scone or ice cream, or it can be made into these pretty little tarts that were inspired by the patisseries in Paris that I used to frequent on the Boulevard Saint-Germain. 

These tarts are incredibly easy to make.  I used Martha Stewart's pate brisse recipe.  I cut out round pieces of the dough and placed them in petite tart tins.  Once cooled, I placed a dollop of the lemon curd in the shell and finished it off with a plump, ripe red raspberry.  The result? A tart and intensely citrus treat with a filling that is similar to lemon meringue pie.  

Vintage Issues

(Fluttery sleeves in bright colors)

It is no mystery that I love magazines, but when you throw a vintage issue into the mix, my head practically spins, inspiration practically pours from the inside;flipping through each page,  a bit of fashion history is uncovered through both the silhouettes and makeup. I have a few issues of Bazaar from the 1950's that I purchased a while back on eBay that I absolutely cherish.  I recently discovered this blog that is dedicated to vintage magazines.  I am truly in love! I could spend hours browsing this tumblr - here are some of my favorites. 

(A rosette hat)

(Blue jacket and red leather gloves)

(Layers of polka dots)

(A military take on the peplum)

(A white dress is beautifullly accented with chic black gloves and a wide brimmed hat)

(What gorgeous details on the back of this dress)

(Grecian inspired)

(Red lips, pearls, a fur shawl and a peach dress equals pure glamour)

(Clad in pale pink and cinched at the waist)

(The classic two piece suit accented with a hat and gloves)

All images from myvintagevogue.com

Midnight in Paris

Nothing is quite like the City of Lights when the sun goes down. The glistening street lights, the Pont Alexandre glowing, reflecting down upon the Seine or the brasseries bustling with the evening crowd. Slip on one of these ethereal gowns, and a night on the town is très nécessaire.

All images from here

Whole Wheat English Muffins with Roasted Honey Almond Butter

I love English muffins, so when I came across this recipe for a whole wheat version, I just had to make it.  This proved to be a nutritious and amazing way to start off the weekend. They were light and fluffy thanks to the nooks and crannies and incredibly easy to make.  I had to ask myself why I had never looked into making them before.  I topped my muffins with the homemade honey almond butter below.   

I am quite the sucker for peanut butter - whether combined with chocolate, honey, bananas or jelly, this tasty topper has one of my food staples since college.  I have never considered this to be a vice, as natural and organic peanut butter is very good for you. It is loaded with fiber, protein and it is a good source of healthy fats.  I will admit though that eating it for breakfast day in and day out can get a tad boring, so I decided to make almond butter.  It could not have been easier or more delicious, spread atop a freshly baked English muffin.  

Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Roast the almonds for 10 minutes, making sure they are just toasted.  Place almonds in food processor and blend for approximately 6 minutes until the oils have released and you have a butter consistency.  If desired, place 1 tablespoon of honey and blend by hand.  

Fall 2012 Fashion Close-up: Alberta Ferreti

The Alberta Ferretti Fall 2012 runway show was feminine, but with an edge - black feathers, trellis-like textures, bright furs, cinched waists and floral details rounded out her 

gorgeous collection for fall.

All images from vogue.com

Inspiring Interiors - Upper East Side Sleek

(The black wall provides a great backdrop to the pops of color)

This Upper East Side apartment is beyond sleek.  I love the use of textures from worn wooden walls, sheep skin rugs, shiny black lacquered walls and furniture, brushed gold tables to velvet sofas. This interior gives this typical neighborhood, known for it's grandiose details, a downtown edge.  

(A tufted velvet sofa and a brass coffee table)

\(Grey walls and white hide rugs)

(Worn wooden walls and glossy wooden floors)

(Bright blue chairs with metal accents are beyond gorgeous)

(Floor to ceiling windows really allows for the sunlight to filter inside)

(Faux-bois wallpaper in the kitchen brings the rustic outdoors inside)

(Exposed wooden beams and an elaborate headboard)

(A black lacquered chest creates the main focal point)

All images from elledecor.com